Best Natural Deodorant for Women: Smell Better, Naturally
Publushed by:
Lorraine PinnixLast updated:
March 4, 2022When you’re on a mission to do the best for your body, something as simple as switching to natural deodorant is a good place to start. However, if you’ve tried natural antiperspirants before and found them lacking in one way or another, you might have given up your search entirely.
Does natural deodorant actually work? Natural deodorants are free from products like aluminum, so they don’t block sweat production entirely, but rather cover up and eliminate odor while absorbing some moisture. The newer formulas for natural deodorant are more effective than ever and use a number of natural ingredients including magnesium, coconut oil, and arrowroot.
Once you get your hands on a good deodorant for women made only of natural ingredients, your world will change. To help you do just that, we’ve hand-picked five of our favorites to show you what the new age of natural deodorant is all about.
The best natural deodorant and antiperspirant for women isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach, as well have unique needs. Check out our recommendations for the best options out there with something to suit every type of woman, and see what natural deodorant can do
BEST OVERALL
Native Deodorant
Effective protetcion
Goes on easy
Cruelty-free
CHECK LATEST PRICE
RUNNER UP
Dove Aluminum Free
0% Alcohol (ethanol)
Caring to skin
Coconut scent
CHECK LATEST PRICE
BEST FOR BUDGET
Thai Crystal Deodorant
24-hour protection
Non-sticky
Affordable
CHECK LATEST PRICE
Best Overall: Native Deodorant
Short summary
Native Deodorant is a natural deodorant free from parabens, phthalates, aluminum, and talc, making it ideal for sensitive adults and teenagers alike. With five different flavors, you’ll feel fresh and beautiful for at least eight hours.
Native Deodorant is solid deodorant in a 2.65oz bottle made of natural ingredients like coconut oil, shea butter, tapioca, and probiotics.
As a strong natural deodorant for women, you’ll only need to apply it once for all-day protection against odors and it features probiotics that fight the bacteria underneath your arm. Their formulas contain no aluminum, talc, parabens, or phthalates, and it’s a cruelty-free brand, giving you peace of mind about your purchase.
This brand is often rated as the best smelling deodorant for women with a handful of different aromas to enjoy. The best-sellers are Cucumber & Mint and Lavender & Rose, but there’s something for everyone.
For those who prefer a simpler deodorant, you can choose the unscented flavor which is just as powerful at blocking odors. Although there might be some perspiration, your body odor will be contained and you’ll feel good about your smell all day.
As well as the pleasant smell, the Native Deodorant formula is gentle and perfect for sensitive users, and you can feel just as good about letting your teenagers use it too.
Even after shaving, there were no reports of irritation, which is unlike some other deodorant products out there. For a truly natural and gentle way to stay fresh, check out the delicious line from Native Deodorant
Quick Facts
- Size: 2.65oz
- Scent: Unscented, Lavender & Rose, Coconut & Vanilla and more
- Item Form: Stick
Pros
- A good choice for sensitive skin and gentle enough that the rest of the family can use it with you.
- The scents are amazing and refreshing, working for men and women, and they also offer an unscented version if you want a truly simple deodorant.
- One application of Native will last for an entire work day without needing to apply it again, and it washes off easily.
- The brand is committed to cruelty free practices and it’s one that you can feel good about spending your money with.
- Even applying directly after shaving won't cause irritation like other brands do, so you can use it any time without worry.
Cons
- As with other natural deodorants, you may still sweat a bit with this, but there'll be no unpleasant body odor scent to it.
- The cost of this deodorant compared to other natural brands is high, so it might not fit in your budget.
- Although it glides easily once it’s warmed up, getting to this point can take some back and forth.
Runner-Up: Dove Aluminum Free
Short summary
Dove’s 0% Aluminum Free Deodorant comes in a three pack of 2.6oz sticks, containing zero alcohol and zero aluminum. With a coconut and floral scent and the addition of ¼ moisturizers, it’s soft and refreshing for users with sensitive skin.
Dove is no stranger to the world of beauty and their line of 0% Aluminum Deodorants proves you can have natural ingredients and still get an effective product.
With a pack of three 2.6oz roll-on sticks, there’s enough to last for at least six months, and the ingredients feature no aluminum or alcohol. The coconut and floral scent can be a little overwhelming, though, so it’s not ideal for people who prefer a natural aroma.
If you’re looking for the best natural deodorant for women who sweat a lot, Dove has delivered. While most natural deodorants offer odor protection this one is more about stopping excess perspiration, so you’ll feel dry all day.
They’ve also included ¼ moisturizer for women with sensitive and dry skin, which is anice touch. The downside to this is that there are some ingredients that other natural deodorants don’t include, like propylene glycol and added fragrances, so you have to weigh up your preferences.
Dove’s commitment to raising women’s self-esteem is admirable and its dedication to being a cruelty-free brand is strong. This three-pack of deodorant is incredibly affordable, delivers on what it promises, and doesn’t feature any of the harsher ingredients that women want to avoid.
If you want a natural antiperspirant from a reliable brand like Dove, their 0% Aluminum Deodorant is one of the best.
Quick Facts
- Size: 2.6oz (3-pack)
- Scent: Coconut
- Item Form: Stick
Pros
- For the price you pay to get three of these natural deodorant sticks, Dove has managed to make one of the most affordable options.
- Women with sensitive skin will adore the addition of moisturizers to this deodorant, preventing rashes and irritation from forming.
- Dove’s formula provides a more solid line of protection against body odor for women who feel they sweat a lot.
- Dove promises 24 hour protection with this deodorant and while it might not be that long, it does last for at least 12 hours with strenuous activity.
- A cruelty free brand endorsed by PETA and one that tries to do better by the planet and its customers.
Cons
- Some women found the scent to be a little overpowering and while it does diminish throughout the day, it can be a bit much at first.
- Although the ingredients show nothing harmful like alcohol or aluminum, it’s not made only of natural ingredients like others are.
- You may notice some stickiness on the armpit after applying this, so it has to be rubbed in quite well.
Best for Budget: Thai Crystal Deodorant
Short summary
The Thai brand’s Crystal Deodorant Stick is a simple and natural solution featuring just mineral salt and mineral water to protect you against body odor. Coming in a 4.25oz hardened crystal roll-on, you get two in a pack, and it can be applied wet or dry as you need it.
Thai Crystal Deodorant Stick is one of the oldest natural deodorants on the market. Made with mineral salt and no aluminum, parabens, oils, perfumes, or animal products, it’s all-natural and cruelty-free.
The hardened crystal is rolled underneath your arms to provide protection, but if it’s too dry you can wet it a little to roll it on, being cautious that the product can turn sticky with excess sweat. Coming in a budget-friendly two-pack, it’s reasonably priced for almost a full year of use of better body odor.
If you’re looking for a natural deodorant for pregnant women, this would certainly appeal, as it’s a truly natural formula. Made with just mineral salt and mineral water, you won’t be scanning the ingredients looking for anything potentially harmful.
Better still, people who’ve suffered from irritated skin and rashes when trying other natural deodorants will find none of that when they use the Thai Crystal Deodorant Stick.
There are a few downsides though, including the sticky feeling that can occur when you sweat a lot. Those who prefer a lightly scented deodorant will want to shop around as well because this one has zero scent so it’s missing that fresh smell to it.
If you want a truly natural deodorant that’s free from any added chemicals or fragrances, the Thai Crystal Deodorant Stick is a long-time favorite.
Quick Facts
- Size: 32oz (2 pack)
- Scent: None
- Item Form: Crystal Stick
Pros
- This is the true definition of natural with just mineral salt and mineral water used to make it.
- A much gentler alternative to deodorants for people who’ve experienced irritation from other brands.
- As a clear crystal roll on, there’s no risk of yellow or brown stains being left on your armpits from this deodorant.
- Each stone lasts for a few months, even on those who apply a lot, so both can last up to a year.
- These deodorant stones are budget friendly yet effective, and when you buy in a two pack, you save even more.
Cons
- When you sweat a lot with this deodorant on, you might notice a slight stickiness under your arms which can be annoying.
- Because there’s no scent added, some people found they missed having even a light fragrance to add some freshness.
- The hardened crystal can be dry to apply and might need some water added to it to enable it to roll on.
Alternative: Schmidt’s Natural Deodorant
Short summary
Schmidt’s has created the first Ecocert certified natural deodorant in the US, using no harsh ingredients like aluminum, artificial fragrances, phthalates, or parabens. The 3.25oz sticks of deodorant come in a range of scents.
Schmidt’s Natural Deodorant range is one of the most expansive out there, with a handful of different formulas and scents to enjoy.
They feature smells like Lavender and Sage or Charcoal and Magnesium, but if you need something for sensitive skin, the Hemp Seed Oil and Rose is the only one we’d recommend. You get the option of a single stick or bulk pack of three, but both are budget-friendly and rated highly in the natural deodorant market.
If you’re hoping for a powerful deodorant that stops sweat, this isn’t it, and like most natural alternatives it’s more about providing odor control. However, it does that well, and you only need one or two swipes in the morning for all-day coverage.
Considering the size of each deodorant stick, just one bottle of Schmidt’s should last for months. Another bonus is the lack of unsightly white marks or chalky residue left behind after applying, which is a common complaint with other glide-on deodorants.
Schmidt’s ensures their products are plant-based and full of naturally derived products, and they’re vegan-friendly and cruelty-free, but you’ll need to spend some time reading through the ingredient list.
To buy from a brand committed to your health and the health of the planet, Schmidt’s and their range of naturally refreshing deodorants are some of the best.
Quick Facts
- Size: 3.25oz
- Scent: Lavender and Sage
- Item Form: Balm
Pros
- You only need one swipe of this deodorant to get coverage so the single stick will last for months and provide all day odor coverage.
- For how much product you get, it's a budget friendly natural deodorant that works as promised.
- Having a huge selection of scents to choose from, and ingredients means there's something new in each stick of deodorant.
- This is made with vegan friendly formula that doesn’t feature beeswax, and a brand committed to cruelty free practices.
- There are no white marks or chalky residue left behind, so you can wear this deodorant with confidence.
Cons
- While the odor control is impressive, be prepared to sweat your normal amount when you’re wearing Schmidt’s.
- People with sensitive skin will need to use the sensitive formula Schmidt creates as their original line could be irritating.
- A quick look at the ingredient list can be overwhelming as it’s got a few more than the other natural deodorants out there.
Alternative: Hello Natural Deodorant
Short summary
Hello Natural Deodorant is a naturally friendly deodorant that comes in three different formulas. Hello promises no aluminum, talcs, parabens, baking soda, dyes, or anything synthetic, instead, relying on arrowroot, tea tree oil, rice bran wax, and other healthy ingredients.
Hello is a beloved name in the world of natural skincare and beauty products, and their natural deodorant is one of the best.
Coming in three distinct flavors of Activated Charcoal, Sweet Coconut, and Shea Butter, and Citrus and Shea Butter, these natural deodorants are made with naturally derived ingredients like arrowroot and tea tree oil.
A three-pack of 2.6oz deodorant sticks will last for many months, and buying in bulk like this makes them affordable, too.
According to customers, this was one of the only deodorants that didn’t turn slimy and sticky once they started to sweat. It also delivers over 12 hours of protection against body odors, so you can wear it all day with confidence.
However, the texture is quite thick and if it’s not rubbed in properly when you apply it, it may leave behind a chalky residue.
Hello is highly regarded as an eco-friendly brand, so you can feel good about using them. The packaging of these deodorants is made with 100% recycled materials, they never test on animals, and their formulas feature no aluminum, parabens, dyes, artificial fragrances or anything else that’s harsh.
Hello’s Natural Deodorant can take some time for your body to adapt to, but once it does, the results are worth it.
Quick Facts
- Size: 2.6oz (3-pack)
- Scent: Activated Charcoal, Citrus and Shea Butter, Sweet Coconut and Shea Butter
- Item Form: Stick
Pros
- You’ll get around 12 hours of protection from a single application, and sometimes longer.
- This is one of the most effective odor blocking natural deodorants, and it does it all without using aluminum.
- Hello is a long-standing eco-friendly brand that uses recycled packaging and cruelty free formulas, so they have a great reputation.
- This deodorant doesn’t turn stick or get slimy when you start sweating and it stays solid all day.
- The scents that come with each type of deodorant are mild yet refreshing, so they’re perfect for people who don’t want anything overpowering.
Cons
- The deodorant goes on quite thick and some customers reported having to rub the product in if it felt like too much.
- This is another natural deodorant that can leave some chalky residue if you don’t rub it in completely.
- There was a period of a few weeks while women reported their bodies got used to this, which is similar to other natural deodorants.
Natural Deodorant For Women FAQs
Aluminum-free deodorant for women is about more than just using natural products but finding something effective as well. To help you learn about what these natural alternatives are all about, we’ve answered some commonly asked questions that others have had.
Is Natural Deodorant Really Better?
Natural deodorants offer the benefits of sweat absorption and a fresh smell without the need to apply any chemicals to the skin, and most people prefer the gentler approach.
However, when compared to a traditional deodorant that uses aluminum to block the pores and stop sweat, it might not be as effective in this area.
Why Do My Armpits Stink Even After I Shower?
Underneath your armpit are bacteria that build up as you sweat, and as they react with the sweat and oil, they multiply before breaking down and causing body odor.
The simple act of washing under your arms might not be enough to get rid of this smell, and some people find that detox is required where they stop using aluminum-based deodorants for a while to release the trapped bacteria.
How Can I Smell Good Without Deodorant?
If you choose not to wear deodorant but want to ensure you still smell good, there are a few daily practices you’ll need to keep.
Regular washing at least twice a day, exfoliating underneath the armpit, eating a healthy diet, drinking enough water, and using some form of perfume or fragrance will ensure you still smell fresh.
Can You Use Just Coconut Oil As A Deodorant?
While coconut oil does have some properties that make it a good deodorant, like the fact that it’s antimicrobial, it’s not as effective when used on its own.
If you want to apply coconut oil under your arms, then choosing a deodorant that lists this as a key ingredient will ensure you get all of the benefits of the natural ingredients.
Conclusion
You don’t have to expose your body to dangerous ingredients like aluminum just to stay fresh, and once you give natural deodorants a try, you’ll no longer want to.
With one of our top picks and a better understanding of choosing a natural alternative, you’ll have all day freshness that’s healthier for you, too.
BEST OVERALL
